Sexual Violence

• Before departing, read about the cultural norms, expectations, social customs and practices – especially those related to dating and romantic customs – of the host country. Understanding these norms does NOT mean you should accept unwanted sexual contact. Instead is it meant to educate yourself about gender relations, verbal or body language and social cues around dating, which may be considerably different from the United States. 
• Understanding cultural norms helps to understand unfamiliar behavior and also to be aware of people who are not respecting your boundaries. 
• Regardless of the country, culture norms or context, it is ALWAYS ok to say no to unwanted advances. 
• NEVER walk home alone at night and NEVER allow any of your classmates to do so. This applies to both men and women and is crucial to reduce risk for a wide variety of threats – pickpocketing, physical assault, kidnapping, accidents, etc. – and not just sexual assault.
• Drink responsibly and be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you choose to drink, designate someone in your group to be a designated non-drinker. Have a cell phone on you at all times, keep it charged, and keep important phone numbers saved in your phone.
• Watch your drink at all times, and do not accept drinks from strangers. It is possible for someone to slip something into your drink.
• If you notice a concerning interaction or sense a friend is being coerced or in danger, intervene. Introduce yourself, make yourself present, and offer a way out of the situation. Remember that people can’t give consent if they are drunk or incapacitated.
• Never accompany a stranger anywhere, and be wary of strangers who claim they are in need of help.
• Trust your gut.